The Louga Academy in northern Senegal is facing a significant shortage of teachers just days before the scheduled reopening of schools on October 7. According to Siaka Goudiaby, Inspector of the Academy, the lack of personnel is hindering the reopening of several schools that were previously closed and the activation of newly built schools. This issue has become a recurring concern for the academy.
The shortage of teachers has resulted in several schools being put on hold, while others, despite being constructed, have never opened due to the lack of educators. Papa Leyti Mar, Deputy Governor of the region, has requested prefects to collaborate with education authorities to conduct an exhaustive assessment of the needs in personnel. This effort aims to identify schools that can be reopened and those that can be put into service.
Beyond the personnel shortage, other challenges were raised, including the state of school infrastructure, equipment, and the expansion of the school map. The issue of classroom furniture, specifically tables and benches, was also discussed. Local authorities, including mayors and departmental councilors, were encouraged to support schools by taking necessary measures to monitor construction work and ensure the availability of equipment.
The Inspector of the Academy emphasized the need to adapt the school map to the needs of the population, particularly through the opening of new colleges and high schools. Proposals are being discussed among territorial collectivities, education authorities, and the Inspector of the Academy to better respond to school demand. In preparation for the new school year, territorial collectivities and school administrators are called upon to enhance cleaning and maintenance operations in schools.
The region's recent flooding had raised concerns about the impact on schools. However, the Inspector of the Academy reported that no school in the Louga region is currently under water. The school in Darou Mousty, which was initially reported to be flooded, has apparently returned to normal as the water receded with decreasing rainfall.
Siaka Goudiaby stressed that preparation for the school reopening must be a concerted effort among state services, territorial collectivities, unions, parents, and other education stakeholders. This collaboration aims to address the main challenges facing the Louga Academy. The authorities are working to find solutions to the teacher shortage and other issues affecting the education sector in the region.
As the new school year approaches, the Louga Academy is working to overcome its challenges and provide a better learning environment for students. The Inspector of the Academy and other stakeholders are committed to finding lasting solutions to the teacher shortage and other issues affecting education in the region.
Key points
- The Louga Academy faces a significant shortage of teachers ahead of the school reopening.
- The shortage has affected the reopening of several schools and the activation of newly built ones.
- Authorities are working to address the challenges through concerted efforts among stakeholders.
